Pippa Harris appointed BAFTA Chair

Award-winning producer Pippa Harris has been appointed as the new chair of BAFTA.

Harris takes over the role from Jane Lush and will serve for two years. Her appointment will be confirmed at BAFTA's AGM tonight.

She has been closely involved with BAFTA for 10 years and joined the Board of Trustees as deputy chair of the Film Committee in 2011, before being made chair of the Film Committee in 2015.

Among Harris' screen credits are Call The Midwife,Britannia, The Hollow Crown and Penny Dreadful.

Speaking about her appointment, Harris said: "It’s a great honour to be elected chair of BAFTA and I’m fortunate to be following in Jane Lush’s forthright footsteps. The last year has been a difficult and turbulent time for many in our industry, and I want to pay tribute to the calm, determined leadership that Jane has shown.

"Now more than ever it’s vital that we continue to expand our outreach initiatives, scholarship programme and talent development schemes in order to ensure that those entering the industry are encouraged and supported regardless of their background, race or gender.”